Overview
This prospective cohort study compares aims to determine the efficacy and effectiveness of telemedicine-supported on-site linkage to care and treatment in a community probation and parole office (P&P office) setting and compare the results with a historic control with referral to care. Research participants will be followed in the P&P office when they report to their officer during regularly scheduled appointments. Participants will receive treatment without having to travel to a specialist's office. The telemedicine visit will include a consultation with an experienced HCV provider such as a hepatologist or an advanced practice provider and a specialty pharmacist who will educate about and monitor HCV treatment. The UK specialty pharmacy will be available to participants and the HCV management team through a 24-hour support line. Participants will be treated per HCV guidelines and insurance preference.
Eligibility
Inclusion Criteria:
- Clients who will be supervised in the probation and parole office for at least 5 months
- History of hepatitis C
- Able to obtain health insurance
- Capacity to provide written, informed consent
- Life expectancy >1 year
Exclusion Criteria:
- Negative HCV RNA
- Pregnant or breast-feeding
- HIV or HBV co-infection
- Liver cirrhosis with Child-Turcotte-Pugh score 6 or greater at baseline lab work
- Subjects with impaired capacity to provide informed consent
